The evening of Saturday, June 21 will be filled with Hawaiian shirts, grass skirts and Polynesian fire dancing to the pinging of steel drums.
The Bow Wow Luau & The Cat’s Meow FUN-Raiser will hold its sixth annual celebration at the Wrightsville Beach Banks Channel Pub & Grille. Proceeds from the event will benefit Adopt An Angel and PawsPlace, two animal rescue foundations.
Due to an overpopulation of pets, about 6,000 dogs and cats are euthanized each year, said event founder Trish Arnold.
“Most people are removed from that, they don’t realize that number,” Arnold said. “So the Bow Wow Luau & The Cat’s Meow is a fun event to raise money and benefit rescue groups.”
The 2014 event will feature live entertainment by Eduardo Somech playing the steel drums and Island Time Band, a Jimmy Buffett tribute band.
“The FUN-Raiser will feature the island sounds of steel drums being played under palm trees,” Arnold said. “There will be authentic cultural Polynesian dancing.”
Dr. Matthew Resnick, from VCA Animal Hospital, will make a special appearance at the Ask the Vet booth, so guests can ask him pet-related questions.
The event will also hold an auction during which attendees can win prizes such as spa packages, car detailing or a two-night stay at the Wrightsville Beach Holiday Inn and more.
“It’s a great way to get out, raise money and have a good time,” Arnold said. “We have light hors d’oeuvres. The event is heavy on the entertainment.”
The palm trees, real sand, and Hawaiian-themed decorations were paid for by Arnold.
“I ordered everything from the grass skirts to the Hawaiian leis so that all of [money] goes toward the animals,” Arnold said. “You’re not paying for administrative costs or advertising.”
Adopt An Angel is a local –
501(c)(3) dog and cat rescue and adoption agency, completely funded by community donations.
Sherry Gloer, president of Adopt An Angel, said since it was founded in 2004, there have been more than 8,500 adoptions.
“[Bow Wow Luau] is helpful with our costs and medical care,” Gloer said. “The Bow Wow Luau & The Cat’s Meow saves lives.”
The event begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. Guests will be greeted with Hawaiian leis, Arnold said.
“The event is growing every year. It’s heartwarming to see so many people all together for a worthy cause,” she said.
